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Beyond Walls: The Spiritual Legacy of Nehemiah’s Rebuilders
I want to share with you a story from the Book of Nehemiah, a story that’s about more than just building walls. It’s about the priestly families, individuals often overlooked, yet whose dedication and sacrifices were pivotal in the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. This story, my friends, is a testament to the power of community, faith, and leadership—lessons that resonate deeply with us today.
Imagine with me, stepping out from the familiarity of temple duties, the sacred ceremonies, and the quiet prayers, into the dust and noise of construction. The priestly families faced this exact challenge. They were called to leave their comfort zones and rebuild sections of the city wall. It was a call that demanded adaptation, courage, and faith. This shift from temple to construction site illustrates a profound truth: our service to God and our community often requires us to embrace roles we never imagined for ourselves. Just as Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” We are called to be a light, not just within the walls of our churches but out in the world.
These families didn’t merely supervise; they got their hands dirty. They showed that true leadership is not about titles or positions but about living out our faith through action. Their example set a high standard for dedication and commitment, inspiring all those around them. It’s a reminder that each of us, regardless of our role in the church, is called to lead by example, to actively participate in our community’s shared mission.
We knew that this journey was not without its challenges. Differences in enthusiasm and commitment threatened to divide them, mirroring the conflicts we sometimes face within our own faith communities. Yet, the successful completion of the walls is a powerful testimony to the strength of unity and collaboration. It echoes Paul’s words in Ephesians 4:3, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
The sacrifices made by these families, balancing their spiritual duties with the physical labor of rebuilding, facing threats, and enduring personal discomfort, resonate with us today. They remind us that serving our community and God often requires personal sacrifices. But as we see in Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
My friends, the legacy of the priestly families extends far beyond the walls they rebuilt. They remind us that our faith communities thrive when we step up, embrace new challenges, and work together towards a common goal. Their story encourages us to foster a spirit of service, unity, and commitment, building not just physical structures but stronger familial bonds and communities of faith. Let us take to heart the lessons they’ve taught us, stepping out in faith to serve and build up one another, for in doing so, we build a stronger, more united family and community in Christ.
We warmly invite you to come to the True Jesus Church’s bi-annual Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation. See details below.
18-21 April, 2024 Evangelical Service and Spiritual Convocation
Thursday, 18 April, 2024 6:50PM to 8:10PM
Friday and Saturday, 19-20 April, 2024 9:00AM to 8:10PM
Sunday, 21 April, 2024 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Complimentary lunch and dinner will be served.
Please find our church location below:
4N550 Church Road
Bensenville, IL 60106
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For online streaming, please click here.
For regular service hours, please click here.
Email us at ilovejesus@tjc-chicago.org